<p>is forensic psychology practical? if i major in psychology (since forensic psychology is not a major offered), then what would i minor in?
also, what sort of jobs could i acquire (especially in the law field)?
i am interested in Binghamton, a state university on new york (i am a resident of nyc)</p>
<p>Generally, in order to work as a forensic psychologist, you would need a doctorate in clinical psychology with some specialty training in forensic psychology. An undergrad major in psychology could prepare you for graduate school.</p>
<p>A bachelor’s degree might prepare you for work as a probation officer and some entry-level positions in offender rehabilitation.</p>
<p>If you majored in psychology, you could supplement this with a minor or elective coursework in sociology (criminology courses).</p>
^This. It depends on what you mean by “practical.” You couldn’t be a forensic psychologist or criminal profiler with just a BA in psychology, but it will qualify you for probation officer and other entry-level law enforcement positions, as well as work in prisons. It would also qualify you for jobs on police forces as a police officer. A lot of people don’t think about that, but entry-level work as a police officer can lead to openings later - many police officers go on to become detectives and criminal profilers, and agencies like the CIA and FBI prefer people with law enforcement experience.
You don’t have to minor in anything. Taking some sociology classes focused on criminology and deviant behavior could be a good supplement, as could taking some political science classes focused on law enforcement, crime and punishment.